Maryland man loses $40K to convincing scam—here’s how to protect yourself
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It started with a pop-up.
A Maryland man thought he was responding to a security alert on his computer—what followed was a carefully staged scam that cost him $40,000.
Scams like these are becoming more sophisticated, and the people behind them know exactly how to manipulate fear, urgency, and trust.
In Prince George’s County alone, residents lost at least $1 million to similar cons just in the first four months of 2025.
One victim even lost $700,000.
The man, who asked not to be named, is speaking out so others don’t make the same mistake.
“They were evil geniuses,” he said, describing how easily they gained his trust.
Now, local police are urging residents—especially older adults—to be extra cautious when faced with unexpected tech or banking messages.
A step-by-step scam
The scam started with a fake pop-up alert claiming the man’s computer had been hacked.
The message provided a number for “tech support.”
When he called, the person on the other end claimed to be from Microsoft and warned that all his devices were compromised.
From there, he was transferred to someone posing as a bank representative, and later, a supposed federal agent.
Each person he spoke to sounded official and prepared.
They discouraged him from using his phone, checking email, or speaking to family—saying it could alert the “hackers.”
In the end, believing he was protecting his accounts, the man handed over $40,000 in cash to someone he thought was a trusted courier.
Luckily, police were able to step in before he lost more.
Two suspects have been arrested, but the money is likely gone.
Also read: Paws off our savings! The crypto scam preying on vulnerable seniors
Why these scams work
Even those who think they’d never fall for a scam can be caught off guard.
According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, tech support scams alone cost Americans $1.4 billion in 2024.
Many of the victims were over 60.
“These scammers are professionals,” said Sgt. John Quarless of the Prince George’s County Financial Crimes Unit.
“They create urgency and isolate the victim so they can take control of the situation.”
Also read: This woman was left with “nothing in the fridge” after a $500,000 scam–Don’t be next.
Common warning signs to watch for
Scammers use certain tactics again and again.
Knowing what to look for can make all the difference:
What to do if something feels off
Also read: Don’t fall for this costly scam: How a “compromised device” alert stole $45,000 from a couple!
Speak up and stay informed
Many victims stay silent because they’re embarrassed.
But sharing your story can protect others.
“No matter how much or how little you know, call us,” said Sgt. Quarless.
“Let law enforcement do its job.”
To stay up to date, visit resources like the FBI’s IC3 site or AARP’s Fraud Watch Network.
And don’t forget to check in with loved ones, especially those who may be more vulnerable.
If you’ve ever received a suspicious pop-up or unexpected call, you’re not alone.
By sharing what you’ve seen or learned, you just might help someone else avoid becoming a victim!
Read next: Alert: The $2,000 Google Maps scam putting your home at risk
What warning signs did you catch—or maybe miss? Do you have any tips for staying safe online or over the phone? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. By speaking up, you can help others stay informed!
A Maryland man thought he was responding to a security alert on his computer—what followed was a carefully staged scam that cost him $40,000.
Scams like these are becoming more sophisticated, and the people behind them know exactly how to manipulate fear, urgency, and trust.
In Prince George’s County alone, residents lost at least $1 million to similar cons just in the first four months of 2025.
One victim even lost $700,000.
The man, who asked not to be named, is speaking out so others don’t make the same mistake.
“They were evil geniuses,” he said, describing how easily they gained his trust.
Now, local police are urging residents—especially older adults—to be extra cautious when faced with unexpected tech or banking messages.
Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to trick people into handing over their money. Image Source: Pexels / Tima Miroshnichenko.
A step-by-step scam
The scam started with a fake pop-up alert claiming the man’s computer had been hacked.
The message provided a number for “tech support.”
When he called, the person on the other end claimed to be from Microsoft and warned that all his devices were compromised.
From there, he was transferred to someone posing as a bank representative, and later, a supposed federal agent.
Each person he spoke to sounded official and prepared.
They discouraged him from using his phone, checking email, or speaking to family—saying it could alert the “hackers.”
In the end, believing he was protecting his accounts, the man handed over $40,000 in cash to someone he thought was a trusted courier.
Luckily, police were able to step in before he lost more.
Two suspects have been arrested, but the money is likely gone.
Also read: Paws off our savings! The crypto scam preying on vulnerable seniors
Why these scams work
Even those who think they’d never fall for a scam can be caught off guard.
According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, tech support scams alone cost Americans $1.4 billion in 2024.
Many of the victims were over 60.
“These scammers are professionals,” said Sgt. John Quarless of the Prince George’s County Financial Crimes Unit.
“They create urgency and isolate the victim so they can take control of the situation.”
Also read: This woman was left with “nothing in the fridge” after a $500,000 scam–Don’t be next.
Common warning signs to watch for
Scammers use certain tactics again and again.
Knowing what to look for can make all the difference:
- Urgent warnings – You’re told to act fast because your money or data is at risk.
- Isolation tactics – They discourage you from talking to friends, family, or your bank.
- Odd payment methods – Anyone asking for wire transfers, gift cards, or cash pickups is likely a scammer.
- ‘Safe accounts’ – You’re told to move money “for protection.” It’s a trick to steal it.
- Pop-ups or cold calls – Microsoft, your bank, or the government won’t contact you this way.
- Secrecy – If someone says “don’t tell anyone,” that’s a major warning sign.
What to do if something feels off
- Pause – Don’t rush. Scammers want you flustered.
- Hang up and check – Use the official number from your bank card or website—not the one they gave you.
- Talk to someone you trust – A second opinion can stop a scam in its tracks.
- Report it – Even if you didn’t lose money, reporting helps others.
Also read: Don’t fall for this costly scam: How a “compromised device” alert stole $45,000 from a couple!
Speak up and stay informed
Many victims stay silent because they’re embarrassed.
But sharing your story can protect others.
“No matter how much or how little you know, call us,” said Sgt. Quarless.
“Let law enforcement do its job.”
To stay up to date, visit resources like the FBI’s IC3 site or AARP’s Fraud Watch Network.
And don’t forget to check in with loved ones, especially those who may be more vulnerable.
If you’ve ever received a suspicious pop-up or unexpected call, you’re not alone.
By sharing what you’ve seen or learned, you just might help someone else avoid becoming a victim!
Read next: Alert: The $2,000 Google Maps scam putting your home at risk
What warning signs did you catch—or maybe miss? Do you have any tips for staying safe online or over the phone? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. By speaking up, you can help others stay informed!
